ancientism
|an-cient-ism|
/ˈeɪnʃəntɪzəm/
imitation of ancient styles
Etymology
'ancientism' originates from English, formed by combining 'ancient' with the suffix '-ism', where 'ancient' meant 'belonging to the very distant past' and '-ism' denotes a practice or philosophy.
'ancientism' was coined in English in the 19th century to describe the revival or imitation of ancient styles, especially in art and literature.
Initially, it meant 'the use or imitation of ancient styles or customs', and this meaning has remained consistent in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the use or imitation of ancient styles, customs, or language, especially in art, literature, or architecture.
The architect's work was characterized by a deliberate ancientism, echoing Greek and Roman designs.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/02 05:06